Dezeen Magazine

Houseboat by Laust Nørgaard floats in Copenhagen harbour

Danish boatbuilder Laust Nørgaard has completed a floating home for his family in Copenhagen harbour (+ slideshow). 

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

The 70-square-metre two-bedroom houseboat features a dark-stained wood exterior and floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that offer residents generous views of the water.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

Nørgaard and his wife Lisbeth Juul had previously lived in a houseboat but had moved to an apartment in Copenhagen. After their daughter left for university, they decided to go back to living on the water.

"It's all about making a decision and carrying it out. That's the kind of people we are," said Laust.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

Both Laust and Juul have active outdoor lifestyles. The large windows allow to Juul go swimming every morning by simply jumping of her bedroom door.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

Light-stained sliding slatted shutters provide privacy when needed, and also allow the pair to control light levels.

A deck with a pair of bat chairs allow residents to sit outside with a view of the water.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

Inside, the kitchen, dining area, and living area are all open plan. Light plywood walls and a wood-burning stove give the space a contemporary cabin-like feel.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

Built-in shelves and cubbies are set into the walls, providing efficient storage.

The interior is furnished with modern classics like Eames shell chairs and Poul Kjærholm stools, along with contemporary pieces including a sofa by Hay.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

Nørgaard designed the family's modern dining table. The kitchen island is a freestanding metal unit by Danish company Vipp and includes storage, the cooktop, and the sink.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

"The kitchen matches the style of our home perfectly with its simple design and combination of function and aesthetics," Juul said.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

The family's collection of contemporary art reflects their interests in music, photography, and theatre.

Copenhagen House Boat by Laust Nørgaard

Floating architecture like houseboats are becoming increasingly common. Recent examples include a barn-like houseboat on the Thames, a prefabricated floating home in Portugal, and a white buoyant dwelling in Amsterdam.